** Shares of Australia's Accent Group AX1.AX rise 4.2% to A$2.22; set for strongest session since Dec. 2

** Analysts at Bell Potter remain optimistic on the clothing retailer due to interest rate cut-related catalysts

** Brokerage is positive on the firm's scale and exposure in terms of channels, brands and size in addition to its strategy

** Bell Potter also views the strategic investment by U.K.-based retail conglomerate Frasers Group FRAS.L in AX1 and conclusion of negotiations expected in 2H to unlock the sizable store roll-out opportunity of FRAS's core Sports Direct banner in Australia

** Stock down 5.8% in January

(Reporting by Rishav Chatterjee in Bengaluru)

((Rishav.Chatterjee@thomsonreuters.com;))